Today is Ash Wednesday, the first day of the Lent season. Lent is a time for prayer and repentance of sins, as Christians prepare for Holy Week and the celebration of Easter. A common practice during Lent is to fast or give up certain types of luxuries. Now I may ruffle a few feathers here, but I am not a fan of this tradition. I realize that fasting and giving up something is suppose to help you grow closer to God, and in a way symbolize what Jesus Christ did for all of us during Holy Week. But there is no way we can even come close to the same
giving up of ourselves that Jesus Christ did for us on the cross. And are you telling me that people that give up alcohol, chocolate or swearing during Lent are really doing that in recognition of the glory of God? That is why today, on Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent, I am challenging all of you to
Give of yourself in the glory of God.
So what are some ways we can Give this Lent you are now asking? Well, here is a list of a few ideas I have and I'd love hear your ideas. Remember to Comment for a Cause!
- Read the Bible daily
- Practice daily devotions and share your insights with your spouse, children, friends, etc.
- Start a prayer team with a friend or family member. Send each other a text or call each other every day and pray with and for each other.
- Volunteer at your church or in your community. Help feed the hungry, clothe the naked, visit the sick, etc.
- Send letters to family, friends, shut-ins of your church and community, etc. and let them know how much they are loved by you and God (My friend Beth Ann has been doing this the last couple of years and I have been lucky to be on the receiving end of one of her cards. It was very touching.)
I hope you all have a blessed Lent!
